Saint Francis of Assisi (1182-1226) Saint Francis was born in 1182 in Assisi, Italy. He was the son of a wealthy cloth merchant. He spent his youth frivolously, spending money and attending parties with nobles A mysterious voice spoke to him and told him he must change his life and serve God. He walked away from his former life, rejecting all material wealth and privilege. Soon, he felt himself called to preach simplicity of living and poverty. St. Francis is the patron saint of animals and the environment. Artist Biography: I was born and raised in the beautiful state of New Mexico. Growing up, I was surrounded by beautiful people and cultures, both of which have been the subject matter of my art.